Please note amended spelling of surname

The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of the man who died in a mountaineering incident in Glacier National Park near Golden on Aug. 8, 2012.

He is Jon Howard Sortome, aged 52, from 108 Mile Ranch.

Mr. Sortome and his adult son had been attempting an ascent on the Mount Rogers glacier when they encountered severe weather conditions. They were attempting to return to their base camp when something went wrong and they fell a significant distance down the mountain.

Mr. Sortome's son was injured in the incident, but was able to return to base camp and raise the alarm. Mr. Sortome's body was recovered on Aug. 9.

The BC Coroners Service continues to investigate this death.

The family of Mr. Sortome has been notified of his death. On behalf of family members, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

The BC Coroners Service expresses its condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Sortome under these tragic circumstances and its appreciation to the National Parks Service at Glacier National Park for its assistance in this case.

For further information, please contact:

Shannon Bender-Bell

Acting Regional Coroner, Interior Region

BC Coroners Service

250 861-7510

Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect